Lawmakers are in a frantic race to prevent a government shutdown, facing deep divisions in the Republican Party over spending. Malala Yousafzai shares touching insights on the resilience of Afghan women under Taliban rule. The Hollywood landscape remains tumultuous post-COVID, with blockbusters struggling against changing audience habits. Additionally, a shocking murder case involving a healthcare CEO unfolds, while Amazon workers advocate for their rights through strikes. And in a quirky twist, a summer camp trains future Santas!
The struggle to avert a government shutdown revealed deep divisions among Republicans regarding fiscal priorities and leadership dynamics under Trump.
Malala Yousafzai highlights the brave efforts of Afghan women activists fighting against Taliban oppression, stressing the urgent need for global intervention.
Deep dives
Government Shutdown Negotiations
Lawmakers faced a challenging situation as they attempted to avert a government shutdown before the holidays. After a funding bill initially negotiated by Speaker Mike Johnson was undermined by President-elect Donald Trump, Republicans scrambled to generate a backup plan. The modified version included significant funding for farmers and disaster aid but ultimately failed to pass, with a notable division among Republicans over the spending proposal. This scenario highlighted the tensions within the party and set the stage for how Congress would operate under Trump's anticipated leadership.
Women Activists Protesting Taliban Rule
Afghan women activists are courageously protesting against the Taliban's severe restrictions on their rights, which have led to a systematic erasure of women from public life. A new documentary called 'Bread and Roses,' produced by Malala Yousafzai, showcases the struggles of three women activists who faced grave risks to document their fight for freedom, stating their motto: work, bread, freedom. The film captures harrowing instances of being threatened, tear-gassed, and even arrested by the Taliban. Both Malala and the film's director emphasize the need for the international community to acknowledge and act upon the rights violations faced by women and girls in Afghanistan.
Challenges in the Film Industry
Despite a record-breaking Thanksgiving box office weekend, the film industry grapples with structural challenges that have emerged post-pandemic. Audiences have shifted toward streaming services, impacting theater attendance and revenue generation, leaving studios to rely heavily on sequels and franchises. Expert Ryan Fonder notes that while loyal moviegoers still seek theatrical experiences, many are deterred by rising ticket prices and limited offerings outside established IP. This reliance on familiar franchises can stifle creativity in filmmaking, leading to a homogeneous slate of movies that may lack the diversity that audiences desire.
On today’s show: Lawmakers scrambled to reach a deal to fund the government and avert a shutdown. They were ultimately unsuccessful, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Malala Yousafzai and Sahra Mani join Apple News In Conversation to talk about the bravery of women in the face of Taliban rule and the urgent need for the international community to act.
Releasing Hollywood blockbusters is still a messy business, years after the COVID-19 pandemic and labor strikes upended the industry. Los Angeles Times reporter Ryan Faughnder has more.